cracked block 4.3 vortec

[1996 Baja]

I just got my boat back from an authorized dealer for replacement of a thermostat that they had installed. This thermostat failed after 2 hours of use. The oil that they just changed at this service, looks like light colored chocolate milk after idling for about five to ten minutes. I understand that I have a cracked block and need a $3000.00 engine rebuild. I have never had water in the oil before the thermostat failure and believe that the shop should take some responsibility for this new problem. I have to meet with the shop manager on Monday and was looking for some advice. What do you think? Please advise.

 

[Gary H NC]

Re: cracked block 4.3 vortec

Was winterization involved in what the shop was supposed to do?

I know you are in Hilton Head but the temps at night have been in the 20's..
It was 15 here in Charlotte the other night.

I have seen 2 cracked blocks this week from the freezing temps that hit here early.

 

[1996 Baja]

Re: cracked block 4.3 vortec

The boat has been at the shop since the November 1, before the drop in temperature. I did not ask them to winterize the boat and they did not call me to recommend that it be winterized. I had no idea that the boat would be at the shop that long.

 

[Bondo]

Re: cracked block 4.3 vortec

The boat has been at the shop since the November 1.

Ayuh,... Depending on the terms it was left with,... You Might have a case...

 

[Gary H NC]

Re: cracked block 4.3 vortec

If he never asked to have it winterized i doubt the shop would be doing it for free.
He may not have a leg to stand on as far as blaming them....?

If it was my shop i would have called the customer to remind them though...

 

[Alpheus]

Re: cracked block 4.3 vortec

I understand that I have a cracked block and need a $3000.00 engine rebuild.

3k is a little steep for a rebuilt engine.

Costs half that from these guys...

http://www.rapidomarine.com/default.aspx?p=/engines/default.aspx

 

[zbnutcase]

Re: cracked block 4.3 vortec

3K isn't out of line for an installed, out-the-door price. And as a courtesy to customers, I always do a quick drain on any in the lot if freezing temps hit unexpectedly....no biggie

 

[GLENN M]

Re: cracked block 4.3 vortec

ashop takes on aresponsibility when they take possession of your boat.knowing what will happen you stood bye and let them freeze,if nothing else thats got to be bad for business.nobody wants to pay for unwarrented work but thats imparative work,wont help you but my opinon thats neglect.

 

[1996 Baja]

Re: cracked block 4.3 vortec

I have spent many thousands with this shop in the past year. They know that I have limited boat knowledge because I am a first time boat owner and that I always pay the bill if the work is justified, which it always has been. Please remember that I had no idea that boat would be in the shop for so long and that the temperatures would drop so low. As sad as it is, I did not even know that the boat needed to be winterized. I guess that's a whole new topic.

Thanks to all of you for the advice, it is much appreciated !!